Richard, 31, will be joined by Line of Duty’s Keeley Hawes in a new six-part drama written by the show’s producer Jed Mercurio.
The story will follow war veteran David Budd now working as a specialist protection officer for the London Metropolitan police in a tale of espionage and politics.
After being assigned to protect the powerful Home Secretary Julia Montague (played by Keeley), the pair will clash on completely opposing views amid danger and constant threat.
Speaking about his new part, Richard admitted he’s “thrilled” to be sinking his teeth into the material.
He said: “I’m very excited to be working with Jed Mercurio again and thrilled to be working with Keeley Hawes for the first time.
“Jed has created a remarkable story that resonates with the very heart of modern day London and real characters trying to survive in this world.”
Meanwhile, Keeley added that she’s just as excited to work with her Line of Duty co-worker again.
“I’m delighted to be working with Richard Madden and once again with Jed Mercurio, and the hugely talented team behind Line Of Duty.
“Bodyguard is such an exciting project. I can’t wait to get started,” she added.
Meanwhile, writer Jed, 51, revealed he was “deeply flattered” to be working with the two lead actors.
“I’m immensely grateful to the BBC and World Productions for their unstinting support for the series,” he added.
The series will also feature Line of Duty’s Gina McKee, Sophie Rundle, of Peaky Blinders fame, Happy Valley’s Vincent Franklin and Rowena King.
